High Court sets Bengaluru PG safety checks as GBA flags 2,500 illegal East Zone properties

Nearly 2,500 of around 5,000 paying guest accommodations in Bengaluru’s East Zone are operating illegally, the Greater Bengaluru Authority told the Karnataka High Court.

Justice Suraj Govindaraj has issued detailed directions for city authorities to identify and regulate PGs, including those described as hostels, co-living facilities or service apartments. The court said the nature of the operation, rather than its label, should determine whether it is regulated as a PG.

Inspections must check sanctioned building plans, land use, unauthorised floors, terrace rooms, converted parking areas, blocked staircases, occupancy and available space per resident. Fire safety checks must cover extinguishers, alarms, smoke detectors, emergency lighting, exits, evacuation routes, kitchen and LPG safety, and access for fire vehicles.

The court said safety enforcement must also protect residents’ privacy. CCTV cameras are barred from bedrooms, bathrooms, changing areas and other private spaces.

The GBA said it had begun action against illegal PGs, which may be shut down; buildings with zoning or by-law violations could also face demolition. It must file a status report by September 28.